F3E2 error on a Maytag dryer: A troubleshooting guide (2024)

If your dryer suddenly stops mid-cycle and displays an F3E2 error code, don’t panic. In most cases, this fault can be resolved with some basic troubleshooting and just a few tools.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Maytag dryer while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Disclaimer: The error code information in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

What does the F3E2 error mean?

If you’re seeing an F3E2 code displayed on the control panel, it usually indicates a problem with the dryer’s moisture sensor system. The moisture sensors are small metal strips on the inside of the drum that detect when clothes are dry. The dryer measures electrical resistance across the sensor contacts to determine if the load is still wet. This allows the machine to shut off at just the right time.

If the moisture sensor bars get dirty, damaged, or disconnected, the control board will no longer get accurate readings from the moisture sensors, which can cause the F3E2 code to appear and prevent laundry items from drying properly.

Pro tip: On Maytag dryer models equipped with quad sensor technology, the F3E2 code specifically refers to a failure of the rear moisture sensing strips. The front strips are monitored separately, so the dryer may display an F3E5 error code if they’re operating properly. The troubleshooting process is the same for both sensor circuits.

Read more: 9 Ways To Improve Your Dryer’s Performance

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• If you have a gas model, shut off the gas supply to prevent any leaks while you work.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

Read more: Tips for Preventing Wrinkles in the Dryer: Goodbye Ironing!

How to troubleshoot an F3E2 error message

Clear the F3E2 fault code from your Maytag dryer with these troubleshooting steps.

Step 1: Access the moisture sensor connector

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Remove the screws at the back of the top panel. Slide the top panel back to access the console mounting screws. Find the screws holding the console in place and remove them. Carefully lift the console off the dryer.
3. Remove the front panel screws and carefully lift the panel off.
4. Find the 3-wire moisture sensor connector below the door opening, between the front panel and bulkhead. Disconnect the moisture sensor connector.

Step 2: Check the wire harness

1. Find the main control board in the dryer.
2. Find connector J13 on the board and carefully disconnect it.
3. Set a multimeter to continuity mode.
4. Use the multimeter probes to check for continuity between the pins of connector J13 and the corresponding pins of the disconnected moisture sensor connector.
5. Check the meter. There should be continuity and the meter should make a beeping sound. If there’s no continuity present, replace the main wire harness.

If you got continuity, move on to the next step.

Step 3: Test the moisture sensor

1. Set your multimeter to measure resistance (Ω).
2. Use the multimeter probes to measure the resistance across the outermost contacts of the moisture sensor connector.
3. Check the meter reading. If you get a small resistance reading (around 10kΩ), clean the two metal moisture strips inside the drum with a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol.
4. After cleaning, re-measure the resistance. If you still get a small resistance reading, replace the sensor harness.

If you don’t get a small resistance reading, use the probes to measure the resistance across each of the outermost contacts and the center terminal (ground connection) of the moisture sensor connector. If you get a resistance reading of less than infinity on either connection, replace the sensor harness.

If you made it this far and got a resistance reading of infinity on both connections, replace the main control board as a last resort.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Maytag dryer working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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